Citrus Medica Vulgaris Peel Oil
Citron peel oil belongs to the citrus peel oils category that the CIR Expert Panel evaluated; safe in cosmetic use only when leave-on products do not exceed 0.0015% (15 ppm) 5-methoxypsoralen due to phototoxicity from furanocoumarins. As a flavoring at low food-use levels it has GRAS recognition, but topical exposure followed by sun can cause phytophotodermatitis.
What it is
Cold-pressed essential oil from the peel of citron (Citrus medica vulgaris); citrus essential oil with limonene as the major terpene plus furanocoumarins.
Natural flavor and aroma component.
Why it's flagged
- Furanocoumarins can cause phytophotodermatitis (cosmetic/topical use)
- Mild CYP3A4 inhibition possible
What regulators actually say
"The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel assessed the safety of 14 citrus-derived peel oil ingredients and concluded that these ingredients are safe for use in cosmetic products when finished products, excluding rinse-off products, do not contain more than 0.0015% (15 ppm) 5-methoxypsoralen."
"Some citrus essential oils, e.g., from bergamot, lemon, and grapefruit exhibit phototoxic effects upon exposure to sunlight/UV rays owing to furanocoumarins, especially 5-MOP (5-methoxypsoralen or bergapten)."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Citrus peel oils used as flavors are GRAS at typical use levels (FEMA-evaluated)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized natural flavoring; cosmetic use restricted under EU rules limiting psoralens
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